Killeen implements overtime reduction plan during severe weather

One Central Texas city saved $4,200 by implementing an overtime reduction plan over the weekend.

This plan has five levels to it. On the first level, they would reduce a ladder truck by one person. On the second and third level, they would reduce a rescue truck by one person. On the fourth level, they would reduce a tower truck by one person. Lastly, on the fifth level, they remove two medics and a second ambulance out of the Central Fire Station.

News Channel 25's Hunter Davis spoke with Fire Chief Brian Brank of the Killeen Fire Department who confirmed the plan went into action for the first time Sunday at 7 a.m. This was a result of five people calling in sick, but he says in no way did the shortage come at the cost of lost lives or missed calls.

"This plan for tiered overtime is for the benefit of the citizens from a financial standpoint, but we also want to make sure they are protected by an emergency standpoint, and at no time yesterday was anyone in danger," Chief Brank said.

A West Texas man has pleaded guilty in the death of his 18-year-old stepdaughter who authorities say was repeatedly subjected to sexual abuse before she was fatally stabbed and her uterus was cut from her body.

A West Texas man has pleaded guilty in the death of his 18-year-old stepdaughter who authorities say was repeatedly subjected to sexual abuse before she was fatally stabbed and her uterus was cut from her body.